Thanks for the information's. I have been very careful in selecting this
vehicle but without knowing oil consumption problem. Perhaps I do have or
not have this oil consumption issue, but it is something I will keep an eyes
closely to ensure proper measure is taken. I have checked the e-test
certificate for HC reading and other emission criteria readings. The
vehicle passed emission with good margin. Test drove the car for about 20
min, everything seems fine. I did notice that car idling at 1000 rpm for
about 10 min of the total test drive time (temp. outside is around 0
Fahrenheit) before it drop to 700-800 RPM. Car drive smooth, accelerate
well with 5 speed tranny. Heater is working fine. Other than high RPM
during 1st 10 min drive, I would say the car drive like a new car. Once I
pick up the car this Friday, I will check the oil and will stick to
recommended oil from Saturn (I think 10W30). I must say that this newsgroup
has been helpful to me to acquire some level of knowledge about Saturn
engine and I am appreciated.

> wrote in message
...
> On Mon, 27 Dec 2004 22:16:21 -0500, "Paul" > wrote:
>
> >Thanks,
> >The information I found from internet seems to indicate that Saturn
engine
> >suffer heavy oil consumption (1 qt after 400 to 500 miles) Ouch!. It
also
> >said that this oil consumption problem normally occurs at 70,000 miles
and
> >above. Few have suggest to replace PCV valve while other said that an
oil
> >ring is start to fail that engine over haul is required to control the
oil
> >consumption. One most elegant solution to the problem is to switch oil
> >grade to 20W50!
> >So is this a common to majority Saturn owners or just a few isolate
> >incident? Should I switch to 20W50 oil once I pickup the car?
>
> NO! With oil that thick, it might not evenly flow through some tiny
> ports, creating localized underlubrication, and over heating. You
> want to follow the manufactures oil viscosity recommendations. If the
> car burns oil, you shouldn't buy it. Unless the car is real cheap.
> The oil burning issue could cause the car to fail
> inspections(smoking), and I'm sure there are other cars out there that
> are in better condition you can buy.
>
> imho,
>
> tom @ www.CarFleaMarket.com
>
>
>
>
>
> >
> >Thx again for all your help in advance.
> >"Steve" > wrote in message
> ...
> >> Before you accept the car, check for the dreaded (and common) oil-burn
> >> problem. Look at the dip stick, the oil fill cap, PCV valve and
throttle
> >> body, not the oil.
> >>
> >> "Kevin M. Keller" > wrote in message
> >> ...
> >> > "Paul" > typed until their fingers bled, and came up
with:
> >> >
> >> > > I have recently bought a station wagon 1998 with 5 speed
transmission.
> >> > > (I think 1.9L single overhead cam). We are planning to pick this
car
> >> > > this week as it is going through safety inspection right now. It
has
> >> > > 100,000Km, Could anyone tell me a bit more about this engine such
as
> >> > > typical problematic areas. For example, water pump and ignition
> >> > > module or injectors. I am planning to have the timing belt
replaced
> >> > > within a week, do I have to replace water pump too? Coolant, Is it
> >> > > Dexcool? Any issue with the coolant system?
> >> > >
> >> > > Thx in advance for your help.
> >> > >
> >> > >
> >> >
> >> > No timing belt - you have a chain. alternators can be a weak point.
> >> > keep the oil changed and you will keep the chain happy. and yes, teh
> >> > coolant is dexcool.
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > --
> >> > Visit the Saturn Performance Club -
> >http://www.saturnperformanceclub.com
> >>
> >>
> >
>